What is the Best Refrigerator for Truckers?

March 25, 2023


Best Overall

The Alpicool C20 Portable Refrigerator is an energy-efficient, compact cooling and freezing solution for truck drivers, campers, and road trippers. 

Best Value

The Wagan EL6224 is a 24-liter electric car cooler and warmer perfect for long road trips, camping, or truck driving. It conveniently plugs into your vehicle's 12V DC outlet and can cool down to 36°F below ambient temperature or warm up to 140°F. 

Most Popular

The Koolatron P27 Voyager is a 12V thermoelectric travel cooler and warmer with a 27-liter capacity, perfect for keeping your food and drinks at the ideal temperature during long drives.


Having spoken to so many truck driver's over the years as they transport cargo around this wonderful country. I have first-hand knowledge of the difficulties and rewards of a nomadic lifestyle, and I have learned a few ways to make a driver's travels more relaxing and pleasurable. A cooler/warmer that runs on electricity is one of the best purchases you will ever made for your cab. I'll explain why I think every truck driver ought to have one in this blog article and how it can make traveling so much simpler.

This article will give you insight into our top 5 picks 

Top 5 Refrigerators For Truck Drivers

After a lot of research, reviews, and digging into feedback from other truck drivers, these are our top refrigerators for truck drivers.

1. Alpicool C20 Portable Refrigerator

The Alpicool C20 Portable Refrigerator is an energy-efficient, compact cooling and freezing solution for truck drivers, campers, and road trippers. With a 20-liter capacity, it can run on both 12V DC and 110V AC power sources, making it versatile for various settings. Its digital temperature control allows users to easily set and monitor the internal temperature, ranging from -4°F to 50°F. The C20 boasts a tough exterior, ensuring durability, while its low noise level ensures minimal disturbance.

Overall, the Alpicool C20 is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient portable refrigerator.

2. Wagan EL6224 24 Liter Electric Car Cooler and Warmer

The Wagan EL6224 is a 24-liter electric car cooler and warmer perfect for long road trips, camping, or truck driving. It conveniently plugs into your vehicle's 12V DC outlet and can cool down to 36°F below ambient temperature or warm up to 140°F. The EL6224 features a removable divider to help organize contents and a built-in handle for easy transport.

While it may not have the same cooling capabilities as a dedicated portable refrigerator, the Wagan EL6224 offers a budget-friendly, versatile solution for keeping food and drinks cool or warm during your travels.

3. Koolatron P27 12V Voyager
Travel Cooler and Warmer

The Koolatron P27 Voyager is a 12V thermoelectric travel cooler and warmer with a 27-liter capacity, perfect for keeping your food and drinks at the ideal temperature during long drives. It can cool contents up to 40°F below the surrounding temperature and warm them up to 130°F. Its compact, space-saving design allows it to fit in most vehicle interiors, while the built-in handle ensures easy portability.

While it may not be as efficient as a compressor-based cooler, the Koolatron P27 is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and versatile cooling/warming solution.

4. Igloo Iceless Thermoelectric Cooler

The Igloo Iceless Thermoelectric Cooler is a low-maintenance, ice-free cooling solution ideal for road trips, camping, or truck driving. With a 26-quart capacity, it can cool down to 36°F below the ambient temperature using a 12V DC power source. Its brushless motor ensures a quiet operation, while the ergonomic carrying handle and slim design make it easy to transport and store.

Although it lacks warming functionality, the Igloo Iceless Cooler is a reliable, no-fuss option for keeping your food and drinks chilled during your journey.

5. Coleman PowerChill Portable Thermoelectric Cooler

The Coleman PowerChill Portable Thermoelectric Cooler offers a 40-quart capacity for ample food and drink storage during extended trips. It plugs into a 12V DC power source and can cool down to 40°F below the ambient temperature. The PowerChill features a unique door design that can open from either side, providing easy access to contents. The adjustable shelf divider allows for better organization, and the cooler can be used in either a vertical or horizontal orientation.

While it lacks a warming function, the Coleman PowerChill is a dependable and spacious option for those looking for effective cooling on the go.

Truck Driver Electric Cooler/Heater Buying Guide

Whether you’re shopping online or you’re going to the store, this guide will be useful in picking a great electric cooler/heater for you.

Types of Electric Coolers (Refrigerators)

1. Thermoelectric Coolers/Warmers:

Thermoelectric units use the Peltier effect to cool or warm and are lightweight and compact. They can cool around 35-40°F below ambient temperature and heat up to 130-140°F. However, they have lower energy efficiency and may underperform in extreme temperatures.

2. Compressor-based Coolers:

Compressor-based coolers use a refrigerant and compressor system, offering higher cooling capacity and energy efficiency. They can reach freezing temperatures for storing perishables. They are generally larger, heavier, and more expensive than thermoelectric models.

3. Absorption Coolers:

Absorption coolers use a heat source to create a cooling effect through evaporation and absorption. They can operate on multiple power sources (propane, 12V DC, or 110V AC) and are quiet, but they have a lower cooling capacity compared to compressor-based coolers.

4. Electric Heaters:

Electric heaters generate warmth using various technologies such as radiant, convection, and fan-forced heating. They offer quick, targeted warmth or even heat distribution, depending on the type. They come in various sizes and designs, from portable to wall-mounted units.

Why you should consider adding an electric cooler to your truck

Healthy Travel Food
Maintaining a nutritious diet while traveling for extended periods of time is one of the largest issues faced by truck drivers. While quick, fast food and meals at truck stops aren't necessarily the healthiest choices. You may keep fresh fruits, veggies, and other nutritious food in your cab with an electric cooler/warmer. Even when you're far from home, you can still enjoy a wholesome, home-cooked meal by keeping prepared dishes at the ideal temperature.

Reduce your food costs.
When you spend a lot of time traveling, eating out may get pricey. You can preserve food and beverages that you bring from home or the grocery store using an electric cooler or warmer, which is frequently less expensive than dining out or purchasing prepared meals. Also, having food and drinks readily available in your cab will save you time and money by reducing the amount of time you spend stopping for meals.

Convenience and comfort
Large distances can be exhausting, so it's important to carry some comforts to make the trip more enjoyable. A cold Coke on a hot day or a warm cup of coffee to start your morning may all be enjoyed at the perfect temperature with the help of an electric cooler/warmer. You won't need to stop as frequently or rely on possibly dubious truck stop meals because food and beverages will always be available to you.

Minimize Waste and Practice Environmental Responsibility
You'll reduce waste and save money on food by using an electric cooler or warmer. You may store your meals and snacks in reusable containers and storage bags, which eliminates the need for single-use packaging. Also, by doing away with the need for disposable coolers or ice, you'll be helping to keep the environment cleaner.

Adaptability to Various Weather Conditions
Because it may be used in a variety of locations, an electric cooler/warmer is a useful tool for truck drivers. With the cooling function in the summer and the warming function in the winter, you can keep your meals and drinks cool and hydrating. Regardless of the weather outside, you always have the ideal meal thanks to this versatility.

How to buy a Quality Electric Cooler & Heater

Why do you need to invest in quality electric cooler & heater? Yeah, it’s important to always buy high-quality products when you can afford them. But why, as a truck driver, is it important that whatever cooler you buy must be of high quality?

What benefits do quality electric coolers posess?

1. Cooling Capacity:

Consider the cooler's ability to maintain low temperatures, even in hot environments. Some coolers can reach freezing temperatures, while others can only cool below ambient temperature.

2. Energy Efficiency:

Look for coolers that consume less power to maintain the desired temperature, as this will save on energy costs and reduce the strain on your vehicle's battery.

3. Size and Storage Capacity:

An investment in quality seat cushion is an expense saved on hospital bills. Certain back conditions develop when you sit for hours on a stretch, as it is with truck driving. Without a quality seat cushion, you may as well sign up for a life of pain in the back.

4. Noise Level:

Consider the noise generated by the cooler, especially if you'll be using it while sleeping or in close proximity to your resting area. Some coolers are quieter than others.

5. Power Source Compatibility:

Ensure that the cooler is compatible with your preferred power source, such as 12V DC for vehicles or 110V AC for home use. Some coolers offer dual power options for added versatility.

6. Durability and Build Quality:

Look for a cooler made from high-quality materials and built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use, especially in mobile environments like trucks.

7. Temperature Control:

Choose a cooler with adjustable temperature settings, allowing you to set and maintain the optimal temperature for your food and drinks.

8. Price and Budget:

Consider your budget and compare the features and performance of coolers within your price range to find the best value for your needs.

By taking these factors into account, you can choose an electric cooler that best suits your needs, ensuring optimal performance and convenience on the road.

Conclusion

An electric cooler/warmer has proven to be one of the most useful improvements to have in the cab as a truck driver. By providing you with healthier meals, saving me money, giving comfort and convenience, decreasing waste, and keeping your food and drinks fresh, it has the ability to improve your well being on the road. I definitely recommend buying an electric cooler/warmer if you're a fellow truck driver or someone who travels for long periods of time to improve your trip and make life behind the wheel a little bit simpler.

About the author

I’m Luis Uribe, author of this website. I am the owner and head publisher for Trucker Daily and a freight brokerage Total Connection Logistics. I have been in and around the trucking industry for over 15 years. It is my mission with Trucker daily to equip truck drivers, with the latest in industry updates, news, and helpful tips to help further your trucking career and life. Whether you are a truck driving veteran, or beginner, you will find information on this site to save you a lot of time in your driving journey.

{"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}